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The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm, golden hue across the room. Zee woke up slowly, blinking away the last remnants of sleep. He was immediately aware of the comforting weight of Nunew’s body beside him, his head still resting on Zee’s shoulder. The events of the previous day played back in Zee’s mind, and though Nunew had seemed better by the evening, a hint of worry lingered in Zee’s heart.

He turned his head slightly to look at Nunew, who was still sleeping peacefully. His features were relaxed, and there was no sign of the discomfort that had plagued him the night before. Zee’s hand instinctively reached out, gently brushing a few strands of hair away from Nunew’s face. The soft touch caused Nunew to stir slightly, and he slowly opened his eyes, blinking up at Zee.

“Morning, Hia,” Nunew murmured, his voice still thick with sleep. He offered Zee a small smile, the corners of his lips turning up in a way that always melted Zee’s heart.

“Good morning, Nuh,” Zee replied, his voice soft and filled with warmth. “How are you feeling today?”

Nunew took a moment to assess himself before responding. “Much better, actually. I’m not as weak, and the fever’s definitely gone. Thanks to you.”

Zee sighed in relief, but the concern in his eyes hadn’t completely faded. “I’m glad to hear that, but I still want to keep an eye on you. Yesterday took a lot out of you, and I don’t want you pushing yourself too hard.”

Nunew nodded, understanding the worry in Zee’s voice. “I promise I’ll take it easy. I don’t want to give you another scare.”

Zee leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to Nunew’s forehead. “Good. Let’s just take today one step at a time.”

After a quiet, slow start to their morning, Zee decided to make a light breakfast for them both. He insisted that Nunew stay in bed, and though Nunew protested lightly, he eventually gave in, knowing Zee only had his best interests at heart.

While Zee was in the kitchen, Nunew lay back against the pillows, his mind drifting. The care Zee had shown him over the past day made his heart swell with love. He had always known that Zee was protective and caring, but experiencing it firsthand during his time of need had deepened Nunew’s appreciation for his mate.

As he lay there, though, a nagging thought began to take root in Nunew’s mind. What had caused his sudden illness? He rarely got sick, and the intensity of the fever and sweating had been unlike anything he’d experienced before. Could it have been something more than just a simple fever? Or was there something else happening inside him that he wasn’t aware of?

Nunew frowned slightly, trying to push the thoughts away. He didn’t want to worry Zee any more than he already had. But the lingering concern gnawed at him, making it hard to fully relax. He knew that Zee would be able to sense his unease if he wasn’t careful, and the last thing he wanted was to add to Zee’s burden.

By the time Zee returned with a tray of food, Nunew had managed to push his worries to the back of his mind, though they still lingered just beneath the surface. He greeted Zee with a smile as Zee set the tray down and joined him in bed.

“I made your favorite,” Zee said, his voice full of affection. “Toast with honey and some fresh fruit. Light but satisfying.”

Nunew’s smile widened as he looked at the tray. “You know me too well, Hia. Thank you.”

They ate breakfast together, the conversation light and easy, filled with laughter and shared memories. Zee’s worry seemed to lessen as Nunew ate with a healthy appetite, and the tension from the previous day slowly began to dissipate.

After breakfast, they spent the day relaxing together. Zee read to Nunew from the book they had started the night before, his voice a soothing presence that lulled Nunew into a state of calm. They watched a few of their favorite shows and even played a light board game to pass the time. All the while, Nunew felt a deep sense of contentment being with Zee, even though the worry about his health lingered in the back of his mind.

As the afternoon wore on, Nunew found himself growing tired again, a slight wave of fatigue washing over him. Zee noticed immediately and suggested they both take a nap. Nunew agreed, grateful for the chance to rest.

Once they were both settled under the covers, Zee wrapped an arm around Nunew, pulling him close. Nunew nestled into Zee’s embrace, feeling safe and loved.

“Hia?” Nunew’s voice was soft, hesitant.

“Hmm?” Zee responded, his voice gentle as he brushed his fingers through Nunew’s hair.

“I just want to say… thank you for everything. I don’t know what I would’ve done without you.”

Zee’s heart swelled with emotion as he tightened his hold on Nunew. “You don’t have to thank me, Nuh. I’m your mate. Taking care of you is part of who I am. I’d do anything for you.”

Nunew smiled softly, his eyes growing heavy as Zee’s words comforted him. “I know. I just… I’m so lucky to have you.”

“We’re lucky to have each other,” Zee murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of Nunew’s head. “Now, rest, okay? I’ll be right here.”

Nunew nodded, letting his eyes close as he settled into Zee’s embrace. The warmth of Zee’s body and the steady rhythm of his breathing lulled him into a peaceful sleep.

As Nunew slept, the lingering worries in his mind slowly began to fade, replaced by the comfort of Zee’s love and protection. Whatever had caused his sudden illness, Nunew knew that with Zee by his side, he could face anything. And as they lay there together, wrapped in each other’s warmth, the bond between them grew even stronger, a quiet yet powerful testament to their love and commitment.

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